Playing With MicroLaserPeel

Not too long ago, I had the opportunity to experiment with Sciton's Profractional Laser Technology, Sciton's BBL, and Sciton's MicroLaserPeel treatment. I was pretty excited about the versatility of the MicroLaserPeel. This  resurfacing laser treatment is fully customizable, and can fall anywhere in social downtime (ie, pinkness/sensitivity afterwards) between a REALLY effective microdermabrasion and a huge, intense laser treatment. Here's what can be treated with MicroLaserPeel:

• Wrinkles and Skin Texture

• Scars

• Keratosis

• Sun damage (including freckles)

• Pigment irregularities

Almost any skin areas can be treated, but the most popular treatment areas are the face, neck, chest and hands.

MicroLaserPeel (also sometimes called a NanoPeel, or a Weekend Peel) is an erbium laser treatment that removes a thin layer of damaged skin to improve texture and provide a more youthful appearance. It's pretty great because it can be administered with great precision of depth, like if you only have one afternoon for social-downtime. The procedure is performed in your physician’s office and is pretty great because it can be custom tailored to your specific skin concerns, and most importantly: How much time you have to spare for social downtime. That, and it can be combined with other laser procedures at the same visit to maximize your results.

The depth is measured in microns, so a 10 Micron laser Peel is much lighter than a 20, which would require some social downtime. Here's how you could look at it: A series of microdermabrasions (like maybe 6 treatments) can equal one treatment of a 10 micron MicroLaserPeel.

Here's a great video of a demonstration.You'll see the MicroLaserPeel’s beam being scanned over a treatment area to remove the very thin layer of the skin. As the skin heals, fresh cells grow and resurface the treated area. The result is healthier-looking skin, often with reduced wrinkles and improved tone. Patients often say that it looks like their skin went from looking 'tired' to fab.

 Here's the same day before and after pictures of my hand after (from top to bottom) a 4 Micron Peel, an 8 Micron Peel, and a 10 Micron Peel. (translation: Super-Light to Light)

I felt totally fine (no discomfort AT ALL), and the texture on my left hand actually looked and felt smoother and healthier than the right hand, almost right away.  I was surprised how audible the laser sound was, and how comfortable it was. I really didn't feel much at all! Can't wait to offer this treatment to our patients, I think they'll love it!

Until Next time: Stay fabulous My Friends!

Dermaplaning: Don't be Scared

Ever thought Dermaplaning looked scary-as-heck? You're not alone! What is it?? Also known as epidermal leveling, Dermaplaning is an expert technique which gently removes superficial, rough skin with the use of a modified surgical utensil (that's the nice way to say SCALPEL). This specialized treatment leaves the skin glowing and refreshed. Here's the secret: No, it doesn't hurt! AND, it's actually more gentle (and effective at removing superficial, dead/damaged tissue) than lots of other aesthetic treatments.

Here's me performing a dermaplane:

Who is it good for?  Dermaplaning is safe for almost all skin types. It's not so great for really active acne or for people with really thick hair growth on the face. It's actually a great alternative to microdermabrasion: much more gentle and much more effective at removing stratum corneum!!! Ok, people also love it because it removes peach-fuzz. For those of you who love that part, I mentioned it! Are you happy?? =)

DP treatments result in a more refined, smooth, “glowing” appearance.  Because Dermaplaning does not require the use of chemicals to exfoliate, it is often appropriate for those with certain skin allergies or sensitivities, even rosacea... no kidding!

What to Expect:  Dermaplaning is actually a no-downtime, gentle refinement. You might expect your at-home products to absorb more quickly than usual, and your makeup to go on more smoothly than usual.  (so use caution if you are using strong exfoliants or harsher products!) If it is determined to be appropriate for your skin, a mild chemical peel, cryogen therapy, or a masque treatment may be applied during your treatment. It's sort of like a choose-your-own adventure book. Remember those? If you do, you might look into dermaplaning for it's anti-aging benefits. (That was supposed to be funny!!)

Locally, I enjoy teaching other professionals to dermaplane. This comfortable treatment is a patient-favorite and a specialty of our office, and may be a specialty of an office near you soon!! =)

Until next time, stay fabulous my friends!

E